SCDAA promotes basic and translational research and supports initiatives to increase community participation in clinical research. Basic and clinical research efforts are important to expanding knowledge of the pathophysiology of SCD and to ensure smooth transition of scientific advances into clinical trials.

To promote public awareness and education, SCDAA print and digital publications include a newsletter, a website, social media platforms and a wide array of educational materials to help educate parents on taking care of their children with the disease and teach affected individuals how to manage their disease. Through our member organizations, we train health care workers on the needs of this population and educate the public about sickle cell disease and sickle cell trait. SCDAA also educates local and federal policymakers on SCD and sickle cell trait (SCT) so that they can make informed decisions when making legislative decisions about sickle cell disease.

SCDAA sponsors professional development programs at its annual conference and provides annual technical assistance training for all member organizations. The annual conference lectures include information on the latest clinical, research and psychosocial interventions in sickle cell disease and on the impact of sickle cell trait.

SCDAA supports and facilitates partnerships between Comprehensive Sickle Cell Centers (and other medical centers) and SCDAA member organizations which provide genetic testing and counseling, case management and psychosocial support for individuals and families impacted by sickle cell disease. SCDAA’s member organizations also provide insurance counseling, pharmacy assistance, financial aid, coping skills development and other supportive services and referrals. Suffering from an inherited, chronic disorder, patients with SCD require continuity of care throughout their lives. Similarly, individuals carrying the SCT often are unaware that their children are at increased risk for the disease.

SCDAA and its member organizations engage in community outreach efforts throughout the United States. Activities include campaigns to build awareness of SCD and related conditions, educational health fairs, camps for children with SCD, genetic trait testing and follow-up counseling, referral networks, scholarship programs and other special activities. Much of this work is highlighted during World Sickle Cell Day, which is celebrated annually on June 19, and National Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month, which is acknowledged annually in September.

SCDAA provides ongoing technical support and assistance to providers of SCD-related services in locations outside of North America. Principal among these are providers of such services in African nations, which have a high prevalence of SCD and SCT. SCDAA advocates for national initiatives to provide genetic counseling, newborn SCD screening, infant and pre-natal care, pediatric care and an increased number of adult facilities with expertise in SCD. Likewise, SCDAA advocates for increased and coordinated federal efforts to support research that will lead to the development of new treatments for SCD, and for a comprehensive effort to discover a universal cure for the disease.